An elderly woman from Othach sub-location in Yimbo East ward, Siaya County was all smiles after a well-wisher built for her a house.

Mary Agutu was overjoyed after she was given a brand-new house, ushering in a new chapter in her life.

It was her day to celebrate after living in a relative’s house after her house collapsed more than five years ago.

Agutu, who is in her 80s and a widow, was also gifted goodies as she entered her new house to start her new life.

Her joy was evident on Monday at the grand opening of her house as she cut the ribbon amid songs of joy from the villagers who attended to witness.

Agutu, who narrated to The Standard her plight, was on the brink of tears of joy as she moved into her new shelter.

“I never gave birth and life became very difficult after the death of my husband,” he said, adding that her relatives took her in after her house collapsed.

The widow received the new house courtesy of Got Matar Community Development Group, which was initiated by a well-wisher, Andrew McMillan.

According to the group’s coordinator, Grace Andiki, they decided to give a smile and dignity to the widow by building her a new house.

“Her living condition was dire and through friends, we got support to build her a house,” said Andiki.

Andiki, who added that they are planning to construct at least 50 houses every year for needy, said the new self-contained house was constructed by students from Got Matar Institute of Technology as their practical lesson.

“We decided to give the students an opportunity to showcase their skills in the field and we are proud that they have done a good job. We had masons, plumbers, electricians and welders,” she explained.

The new shelter looked modern, spacious and beautiful, which elevated her status in the community.

Edwin Akuku, the area assistant chief, who was among the locals who witnessed the ceremony, thanked the group for the initiative.

“We are only appealing to the group to extend this noble initiative to more vulnerable people in our community,” said the administrator.